Scientist II, Analytical Development

Vaxcyte•San Carlos, CA

14h•$151,000 - $176,000•Onsite

About The Position

Vaxcyte is seeking an energetic and talented Scientist II to join its Analytical Development team. The role executes analytical testing and contributes to analytical method development for biologics and vaccine development programs. It performs routine and non-routine assays using modern analytical techniques, supports method optimization and troubleshooting, and contributes to continuous improvement with moderate supervision. The Scientist independently plans and executes assigned work, analyzes and interprets data, and escalates or drives investigations as needed. The role also authors and maintains technical documentation and communicates experimental results and conclusions to internal stakeholders. The position contributes to method development, optimization, qualification and validation readiness, and method transfer activities. It partners with cross-functional teams to define analytical plans, meet project timelines, communicate progress and risks, and support a compliant, safe, and scientifically rigorous laboratory culture. The Scientist performs analytical testing, processes and interprets data, maintains documentation, coordinates instrument maintenance, supports laboratory organization and inventory, and follows EHS and hazardous-material requirements. The position is onsite in San Carlos, California, at least four days per week. It reports to the Senior Manager, Analytical Development.

Requirements

PhD, MS, or bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline; other combinations of education and/or experience may be considered.
Relevant industry experience in analytical development, QC, or a related field: PhD with 2–5 years, MS with 7+ years, or BS with 10+ years.
Strong hands-on experience with multiple analytical techniques, such as UV-Vis, HPLC, CE, SDS-PAGE, icIEF, liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, enzyme kinetics, colorimetric and fluorescent plate-based assays, ELISA, Western Blot, and PCR.
Strong knowledge of analytical chemistry or biochemistry principles and demonstrated application to assay development and control strategies.
Ability to troubleshoot non-routine assay and instrument issues using structured root-cause analysis and data-driven decision-making.
Proficiency with analytical software, data-processing workflows, and statistical tools.
Strong scientific judgment and attention to detail, with consistent production of high-quality, inspection-ready documentation.
Ability to independently plan and prioritize work, manage multiple projects, and meet timelines with minimal supervision.
Clear written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to summarize complex data, present recommendations, and collaborate across functions.
Ability to work in a laboratory environment for extended periods.
Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.
Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required.
Ability to contribute to a positive, inclusive, and safety-focused laboratory culture.

Nice To Haves

Experience independently driving method development or optimization activities is preferred.

Responsibilities

Contribute to analytical method development, optimization, and qualification/validation readiness activities.
Design and execute experiments to assess critical method parameters and establish appropriate system suitability and control strategies.
Troubleshoot assay and instrument performance using a structured approach; identify likely root causes, implement corrective actions, and document outcomes and recommendations.
Support or execute method transfers, including protocol preparation, training support, work at receiving laboratories, and resolution of transfer issues.
Author and revise analytical methods, SOPs, protocols, and technical reports, documenting rationale, results, and conclusions clearly.
Partner with cross-functional teams to define analytical plans, meet project timelines, and deliver high-quality outputs.
Communicate experimental progress, data interpretation, and emerging risks; propose mitigation plans and align next steps with stakeholders.
Contribute to a compliant, safety-focused, scientifically rigorous laboratory culture and uphold good documentation and data integrity practices.
Train and mentor junior staff and new team members on assays, workflows, and troubleshooting; provide day-to-day technical guidance and feedback.
Perform routine and non-routine analytical testing using modern analytical methods and approved methods, SOPs, and applicable quality standards.
Process and interpret data; summarize results, trends, and potential risks, and escalate complex findings for review and decision-making.
Maintain timely, accurate laboratory notebook or electronic-system documentation and contribute to technical communications.
Coordinate routine instrument maintenance and service activities, interface with vendors as needed, and support timely issue resolution.
Maintain laboratory organization, cleanliness, and compliant material labeling and storage practices.
Manage reagent, standard, and consumable inventory; initiate procurement, track critical supplies, and support forecasting.
Follow EHS policies and laboratory safety practices; safely handle chemicals and biological materials, dispose of waste properly, and follow hazardous-material procedures.
Support audit and inspection readiness activities where applicable.